Where to send a tick for analysis? - briefly
Send the specimen to a public‑health laboratory, such as the CDC’s Tick‑Borne Disease Reference Laboratory or the appropriate state health department’s vector surveillance unit.
Where to send a tick for analysis? - in detail
Submitting a tick for laboratory examination requires attention to specimen integrity, regulatory compliance, and selection of an appropriate testing facility.
First, choose a reference laboratory accredited for arthropod pathogen detection. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Arbovirus Diagnostic Laboratory in Atlanta accepts tick specimens for viral, bacterial, and protozoal testing. The United Kingdom’s Public Health England (PHE) Tick Surveillance Unit in London provides similar services for European tick-borne agents. Canada’s National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) in Winnipeg also processes ticks submitted by clinicians and researchers. Each of these institutions publishes specific submission guidelines on their websites.
Second, prepare the sample according to the laboratory’s protocol. Common requirements include:
- Placing live or freshly killed ticks in a sealed, breathable container (e.g., a ventilated plastic tube).
- Adding a damp cotton ball to maintain humidity during transport.
- Labeling each specimen with collection date, geographic coordinates, host information, and collector name.
- Including a completed submission form that details the suspected pathogen, intended analyses (PCR, culture, serology), and contact information.
Third, arrange shipment in compliance with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations for biological substances. For non‑infectious specimens, Category B packaging (triple packaging) is sufficient. If the tick is suspected to carry a high‑risk pathogen (e.g., Crimean‑Congo hemorrhagic fever virus), Category A packaging and a special permit may be required. Use an overnight courier with tracking capability to minimize delay.
Fourth, retain a copy of the shipping receipt and confirm receipt with the laboratory upon arrival. Most reference labs provide a tracking number for the specimen and will issue a formal report within 7–14 days, depending on the complexity of the tests ordered.
Finally, consider alternative options for routine surveillance. State health departments often operate regional tick testing programs that forward specimens to state or national reference labs. Academic institutions with entomology or veterinary departments may also accept ticks for research‑focused analysis, provided they have the necessary biosafety approvals.
By following these steps—selecting an accredited laboratory, adhering to specimen preparation guidelines, complying with transport regulations, and maintaining communication with the receiving facility—tick samples can be reliably sent for comprehensive diagnostic evaluation.